One of the finest traditions we have discovered living in the south is the Christmas Boat parades that begin in early December. Usually organized by neighborhoods or boating clubs these events range in size from canoes and kayaks on the Hillsborough River in Tampa to huge yachts on Tampa Bay. Our favorite is organized by
Boca Ciega Yacht Club in Gulfport Fl. To be fair it should be noted the
HideAways have been members of the sailing club for nearly the last two decades.
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| HideAway All Dressed Up |
All boats are welcome to participate. It is not a competition like many of the others. Prizes are awarded but they are usually dinners to local restaurants.
The real reward is the chance to be a rock star as you motor close by throngs of your screaming fans shouting the seasons greetings.
The parade route takes you on a tour of Boca Ciega Bay visiting the cities of St Petersburg, Gulfport and Southern Pasadena including several other boating clubs and residential areas.
The proceeds of your entrance fee, two or more toys, go to
Gulfport's Operation Santa project. A fine way to begin the Christmas Season. This year's parade is the subject of our latest video below. It's a long one so put another log on the fire.
SMALL BOATS ROCK!
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